Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Crackers are a simple and delicious snack that combines the smoky flavor of salmon with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all on a crunchy cracker. The contrast between the soft, silky topping and the crisp cracker makes for a delightful bite every time. It’s a perfect little appetizer or a quick treat when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss.
I love making these because they come together so quickly, and you can dress them up with a sprinkle of fresh dill or a squeeze of lemon for an extra pop of flavor. It’s one of those snacks that feels fancy but doesn’t take all day to prepare. Whenever I bring these to a party, they disappear fast — everyone seems to enjoy the balance of smoky, creamy, and crunchy.
My favorite way to enjoy these crackers is with a cold glass of lemonade or a crisp white wine, making them a go-to for warm evenings or casual gatherings. They’re also great to keep on hand for unexpected guests, or even for a little solo treat when you want something light, tasty, and satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Salmon: This is the star of the recipe. Choose good quality smoked salmon for the best flavor. If you’re avoiding seafood, thinly sliced roasted turkey or smoked tofu can work as tasty alternatives.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese provides the creamy base. You can swap it with a dairy-free version or use Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Just ensure it spreads easily.
Crackers: Sesame seed crackers add crunch and a nutty taste, but feel free to use any crisp cracker you like—whole wheat, multigrain, or gluten-free all work well.
Dill and Lemon Juice: Fresh dill brightens the flavor, while lemon juice adds a touch of zing. If you can’t find dill, fresh parsley or chives are good substitutes.
How Do You Make the Cream Cheese Spread Smooth and Flavorful?
Softening the cream cheese before mixing is key. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This makes it easy to blend with dill and lemon juice without lumps.
- Use a fork or small whisk to combine ingredients until creamy.
- If the mixture feels too thick, add a tiny splash of milk or lemon juice to loosen it.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with black pepper to balance the flavors.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Small mixing bowl – perfect for blending the cream cheese with dill and lemon juice smoothly.
- Spreading knife or small offset spatula – helps you spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on each cracker without breaking them.
- Serving platter or wooden board – makes presenting your crackers easy and attractive for guests.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap smoked salmon with smoked trout or thinly sliced cooked shrimp for a different seafood twist.
- Add capers or finely chopped red onion on top for a bit of tang and crunch.
- Mix minced fresh chives or dill directly into the cream cheese for more herb flavor in every bite.
- Use flavored cream cheese like garlic & herb or lemon zest to give an extra pop without any extra effort.
How to Make Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Crackers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8-10 sesame seed crackers (or your favorite crisp crackers)
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz (115g) smoked salmon slices
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Everything bagel seasoning or crushed black pepper for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. You just need to mix the cream cheese spread, assemble the crackers with smoked salmon, and garnish them. There’s no baking or chilling time, so it’s perfect for a quick and elegant appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread:
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the chopped fresh dill and lemon juice. Mix everything well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will give your crackers a fresh, zesty flavor.
2. Spread on Crackers:
Using a knife or small spatula, spread about one tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each cracker. Spread gently to avoid breaking the crackers.
3. Add Smoked Salmon:
Place a folded or layered slice of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese on each cracker. The salmon adds a delicious smoky taste and beautiful color.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish each cracker with a small sprig of fresh dill. If you like, sprinkle a little freshly ground black pepper or everything bagel seasoning on top for extra flavor and a nice finishing touch.
5. Present and Enjoy:
Arrange the crackers on a serving platter or board and serve immediately. These make an easy, tasty snack or a classy appetizer for any occasion!
Can I Use Regular Crackers Instead of Sesame Seed Crackers?
Absolutely! Any crisp cracker you like will work well. Just choose one sturdy enough to hold the cream cheese and smoked salmon without breaking.
How Should I Store Leftover Crackers?
Because the crackers can get soggy, it’s best to store leftovers separately—keep the cream cheese mixture and smoked salmon in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days, and assemble just before serving.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the cream cheese spread and slice the salmon a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated. However, assemble the crackers right before serving to keep them crisp and fresh.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Dill?
Dried dill can work in a pinch, though fresh dill offers the best flavor. Alternatively, finely chopped chives or parsley make a nice herbaceous substitute.
